Khai Noen Wong, located in Bang Kacha Subdistrict, Chanthaburi Province, is a historically significant site that reflects the cultural and military heritage of the region. This fort was built during the reign of King Rama III, when King Rama III commissioned Chaophraya Phra Klang (Dis Bunnag) to construct the fort on January 9, 1834. The construction involved dismantling laterite and bricks from the old city walls of Chanthaburi to build the new fort. The primary purpose of Khai Noen Wong was to defend against invasions by Vietnamese forces, which had threatened the area in the past.

 

The fort covers an area of over 270 rai (approximately 43 hectares) within its walls. The walls, approximately 6 meters high, are surrounded by bastions, moats, and gates on all four sides. Numerous ancient cannons are lined up along the merlons. Within the fort lies the Underwater Archaeology Office of the Fine Arts Department and the National Maritime Museum, which houses and preserves artifacts recovered from ancient shipwrecks in the Gulf of Thailand. These artifacts include ceramics such as bowls, jars, containers, and figurines of humans and animals, many of which are Sangkhalok-style ceramics from the Si Satchanalai kilns and Mae Nam Noi kilns in Singburi Province.

 

Within the fort is Yothanimit Temple, also known as Wat Bot, which was built at the same time as Khai Noen Wong. The temple contains a main ordination hall and a 20-meter-high Lanna-style chedi, along with a sermon hall and monk residences. The principal Buddha image, Luang Pho Yai, is revered by local worshippers. The fort also houses the City Pillar Shrine dedicated to King Taksin the Great, reflecting both historical and spiritual significance for the community.

 

Today, the fort’s walls and bastions have been restored, allowing visitors to explore and learn about its history. The National Maritime Museum is open to the public Wednesday through Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and is closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, and public holidays. For inquiries, visitors can contact 039-391-431 or fax 039-391-432.

 

Nearby is the Nern Wong Santol Garden, originating from santol trees planted by Phu Yai Uthai Thanyakhat of Nern Wong Village. When the fort was registered as a historical site and land was acquired for preservation, Phu Yai Uthai relocated some of the trees nearby and propagated new plants through grafting. Between 1982 and 1987, the propagated santol saplings became highly sought after, selling for as much as 7,000 baht each. Today, visitors can still purchase santol seedlings and plants at this site.

 

Khai Noen Wong not only preserves important artifacts and serves as a museum, but it is also an educational site that offers insight into Chanthaburi’s history, including military defense, architecture, Thai art and culture, and maritime commerce. Visitors can experience the historical atmosphere, learn about Sangkhalok ceramics and ancient trade, and enjoy the surrounding greenery, including the santol gardens, making it a comprehensive cultural and historical destination in Chanthaburi.